The Trinidad and Tobago government Friday said it is investigating statements made by a former human trafficker that he operated a human trafficking ring in the country for a number of years.
Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander in commenting on the allegations made by Alex Philip in a Trinidad Guardian newspaper interview, described the details as ‘deeply concerning.
‘The allegations outlined in the recent media publication are deeply concerning and have understandably attracted significant public attention. Let me assure the people of Trinidad and Tobago that this Ministry of Homeland Security does not ignore information of this nature.’
Alexander said where allegations of trafficking in persons arise, they are treated with the seriousness they deserve and are referred through the appropriate channels for assessment and any action considered necessary under the law.
‘We remain committed to ensuring that traffickers are brought to justice and that victims receive the protection they deserve,’ said Alexander, confirming that the Ministry of Homeland Security’s Counter Trafficking Unit (CTU) is investigating the matter.
In the July 26, 2026 article, ‘Confessions of a Former Human Trafficker,’ Philip 47, recounts smuggling Women into Trinidad and Tobago, claiming that he trafficked Venezuelan women and girls into Trinidad and Tobago between 2010 and 2016, and that he operated the network with police protection and catered to wealthy clients.
The Trinidad Guardian said it has not independently verified those claims.
But the CTU said while it is unable to comment on the accuracy of statements made by individuals through the media, it is assuring assured the public that the information contained in the publication has not been ignored.
The CTU reiterated that human trafficking is a serious criminal offence under the Trafficking in Persons Act, Chap. 12:10, and that any information alleging the recruitment, transportation, harbouring or receipt of persons for the purpose of exploitation is treated seriously and assessed in accordance with established investigative and legal procedures.
It said it recognises the concerns expressed by members of the public and assured citizens that every credible piece of information relating to suspected trafficking is capable of informing intelligence gathering, ongoing enquiries or future investigations, regardless of when the alleged conduct occurred.
The CTU noted that trafficking in persons often remains hidden because victims and witnesses may be fearful of coming forward. In light of the matters raised in the recent reports, the Unit is encouraging anyone with additional information relating to the allegations- or any other past or current incidents of suspected trafficking, to come forward.
It said all information received will be treated sensitively and in accordance with the law.